Employers should not underestimate the value of professional relocation support

As part of the many rounds of cost cutting seen in large corporations over recent years, budgets for relocation support have dwindled. Of course, this is understandable as we have all had to ‘tighten our belts’ and make compromises haven’t we? It hasn’t all been bad – where businesses have made strategic decisions to relocate whole departments or offices then enticing staff to move and then settle happily, has naturally been an important priority. Often or not this is when relocation experts such as ourselves are brought in.

Where I am concerned, is when companies believe that offering a one-off relocation sum to new employees will overcome all the moving concerns. Naturally, a few thousand upfront is always appreciated but its not great value for money for either the employer or future employee.

Let’s take a relocation to Peterborough as an example. Peterborough is an impressive, growing city but if we are honest, it’s not the most enticing of places – lacking the buzz of London or awe of Cambridge. To attract senior executives, Peterborough needs to be sold and its many strengths, which are not immediately obvious, presented.

A half day orientation tour with a local relocation expert can do this. Once sold and a new employee needs to find somewhere to live, sort out all the paperwork and identify the everyday amenities – whilst inevitably being called into key business challenges that have been eagerly awaiting the new crusader. Add to this an international element, partner or children then a lump sum becomes very inadequate. Proper relocation support can help companies attract talent and make an individual or family feel nurtured and valued. It prevents problems before they spiral out of control and helps the executive to get on with the job from the day they start. Money well spent if you ask me.

Kate handles Garrington Relocation’s clients looking to move to the East Midlands area.